The UAE chaired the International Expert Group on Space Situational Awareness (SSA) during its participation in the meetings of the 63rd session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS). Held at the United Nations headquarters in Vienna, Austria from 2 to 13 February, the meetings were attended by more than 100 countries and over 20 international organisations. This reflects the UAE’s leadership in promoting the safety and sustainability of outer space.
The UAE, represented by Fatima AlShamsi, Acting Director of Space Policy and International Relations Department at the UAE Space Agency, chaired the Expert Group on Space Situational Awareness. The group includes more than 120 international experts and international organisations.
His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of UAE Space Agency, said: “The UAE’s participation in the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee underscores its commitment to strengthening international cooperation in space exploration and its peaceful uses. This reflects its belief that space is a shared responsibility and that scientific progress should serve humanity.”
Al Qubaisi also emphasised the UAE’s commitment to actively contribute to shaping regulatory frameworks and international policies that ensure the safety and sustainability of space activities.
Al Shamsi said: “With the launch of the work of the Expert Group on Space Situational Awareness, we are beginning a new practical phase within the UN to enhance the safety and sustainability of outer space in light of the rapid global increase in space activities. Under the UAE’s chairmanship, we are working closely with experts and member states to develop practical, consensus-based recommendations that foster data sharing, coordination of orbital operations, and capacity building, in support of the responsible and sustainable use of space for the benefit of all.”
The Expert Group operates under the umbrella of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, with its outputs to be incorporated into the work of the Working Group on the Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities. This approach promotes transparency and ensures regular and systematic follow-up on progress achieved. The Group’s work program extends over three years, from 2026 to 2028, with the aim of submitting clear and actionable recommendations to the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).
National Team on Space Situational Awareness
To support international efforts locally, the UAE continues its work through the National Team on Space Situational Awareness, which aims to discuss and enhance awareness of space situational awareness at the national level and to coordinate efforts among the various space-related stakeholders. This reflects the UAE’s approach based on institutional integration and national partnership to enhance the safety and sustainability of space activities.
UAE’s Participation in the Committee
The Scientific and Technical Subcommittee is one of the core pillars of the United Nations for promoting international cooperation in space science and technology and supporting the peaceful and responsible use of outer space. During the meetings, the UAE delegation reviewed updates on national space activities, including progress in satellite programs, the Emirates Lunar Mission, and developments related to the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt (EMA). The delegation also highlighted the country’s achievements in Earth observation and remote sensing through advanced satellites such as MBZ-SAT, KhalifaSat, and the Arab Satellite 813.
The delegation also reviewed national projects aimed at transforming space data into practical tools that support decision-makers, serve environmental and humanitarian efforts, and enhance readiness and crisis response. The UAE stressed the importance of the sustainability of space activities, reducing space debris, and encouraging the exchange of best practices and technical expertise among countries. The meetings also witnessed presentations by several countries, including Japan and India, showcasing models of their existing partnerships with the UAE in the space sector.
Lunar Activities and the Artemis Accords
As part of its participation in the meetings of the Working Group on Lunar Activities (ATLAC), overseen by the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), the UAE delegation presented its national expertise and key achievements related to the Artemis Accords. The UAE has been a founding member of the Accords since their launch in 2020, which today include more than 60 countries.
The delegation also presented the outcomes of the Artemis workshop hosted by Abu Dhabi last year, which included an interactive exercise to discuss ways to avoid operational interference and unintended impacts between different space missions. The exercise addressed scenarios involving the proximity of lunar missions, competition over resources, commercial activities, and emergency situations. A joint working paper was submitted in cooperation with Canada and Germany on updates to the work of Artemis Accords member states, which was adopted during the leaders’ meeting held last September on the sidelines of the International Astronautical Congress (IAC).
Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities
The UAE also participated in the meetings of the Working Group on the Long-term Sustainability of Outer Space Activities. This marks a major step in the progress made to enhance the sustainability of the space environment globally.
Through its participation in the 63rd session of the Scientific and Technical Subcommittee, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to cooperating with the international community to build a safe, responsible, and sustainable space sector that serves humanity and supports the future of space for generations to come.